This study evaluated the changes in the quality characteristics of extracts (Quantum Energy) from Rehmannia glutinosa, ginseng, balloonflower, Poria cocos, and Adenophora stricta. The extracts were prepared through a six-day aging process, during which the pH decreased with a longer aging period while the viscosity and oBrix values were increased. The color difference (E) of the extracts ranged from 0.27 to 0.49 for all samples, indicating minimal color change with aging. The free sugar content was highest for fructose and glucose, while lactose was not detected. Furthermore, the total free sugar content ranged from 24.518 to 27.646 g/100 g, generally decreasing with the aging time. Benzo[a]pyrene in the extracts ranged from 0.040 to 0.074 g/kg, which is below the limit of quantification. In addition, all extracts were free of total aerobic bacteria, Escherichia coli, and coliforms, confirming that the aging method used in this study was microbiologically safe.
The popularity of the Korean entertainment industry has been growing worldwide. Various forms of media, such as movies, TV series, music, radio and many more, have been used as a platform to launch and promote new products of many brands. For instance, Laneige – a Korean cosmetic company was successfully placed in the Korean drama – Descendants of the Sun. Previous studies have accounted for various factors in analysing product placement in movies, such as brand familiarity, brand fit, and movie genre. However, the effect of the emotional context of where the product is placed remains unclear. The purpose of the present research is to investigate whether the effectiveness of product placement is influenced by the emotions depicted in the scene, and whether the ethicality of the product matters.